By: Rebecca Hudson
Murray County News Staffwriter
Those looking for a good old fashioned Christmas this year need look no further than the Perch Creek Farm where there will be plenty of sleigh riding, marshmallow roasting, and Christmas caroling going on, and everyone is welcome to join in the cheer.
Gerry Buse, along with partners Dan and Vicki Bowman, will have their horse teams harnessed and sleighs ready to go come snow or not, for an old fashioned holiday treat running December 23 through New Year’s Eve this year.
Buse, who grew up in Lake Wilson and now lives near St. James, promises there will be plenty of wonderful memories to make for everyone. “It’s very entertaining and doesn’t matter what the age,” he says. “It’s not fancy shopping or no big toys like at the malls,” he says. “But it’s just fun for all.”
The Bowmans and Buse have for the past eight years been offering sleigh rides in the area and at Perch Creek Farm. “There are young people, teens, and older folks, “ he says. Buse reasons that it’s nature’s way of bridging the age gap, because everyone has a good time. With an average of 300-350 riders a night, the ten day event will attract as many as 900 people of all ages.
Visitors to the farm will find lights gleaming, a roaring bonfire just right for marshmallow roasting, and a large warming building that is filled with Bowman’s antique carriage collection numbering nearly 30. Decked in the season’s finery, the farm will be glowing brightly with holiday cheer. Santa’s sleigh will even be on hand for family pictures.
“It’s fun to see the kids hanging out by the fire – it’s just good wholesome fun,” Buse says.
